The New Orleans Saints have been active in free agency, addressing some key needs on their roster. However, there are still some areas where they could improve before the 2023 NFL season kicks off. Let’s delve into three top remaining free agents who could bolster the Saints’ lineup and make them a force to be reckoned with in the NFC South.
Jayron Kearse: Solidifying the Saints’ Secondary
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While the Saints have a solid core in their secondary, adding depth and experience at the safety position would be a shrewd move. Enter Jayron Kearse, a versatile defensive back who was recently released by the Dallas Cowboys.
Kearse’s release from Dallas was purely a salary cap casualty. He was a valuable asset for the Cowboys, known for his leadership, physicality, and ability to play both safety positions as well as linebacker. His versatility would be a huge asset for the Saints, allowing defensive coordinator Dennis Allen to get creative with his personnel groupings.
Imagine Kearse lining up alongside Tyrann Mathieu and Marcus Maye, forming a formidable trio in the Saints’ secondary. His ability to cover tight ends, blitz the quarterback, and support the run defense would add another dimension to the Saints’ defensive scheme. Moreover, Kearse’s veteran presence and leadership qualities would be invaluable to the Saints’ young defensive backs.
Yannick Ngakoue: Injecting Pass-Rushing Prowess
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One area where the Saints could use an immediate upgrade is their pass rush. Yannick Ngakoue, a proven edge rusher with a knack for getting to the quarterback, could be the missing piece to elevate their defense.
Ngakoue has consistently been a disruptive force throughout his career, recording eight or more sacks in each of his seven seasons in the NFL. His speed off the edge and relentless motor would add a much-needed spark to the Saints’ pass rush, making them a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
Adding Ngakoue to the mix would take some pressure off Cameron Jordan, allowing him to face more favorable matchups. The combination of Jordan’s power and Ngakoue’s speed would create a formidable duo that could wreak havoc in opponents’ backfields.
While Ngakoue has dealt with some minor injuries in the past, the potential reward of adding a player of his caliber far outweighs the risk. Signing Ngakoue would signal the Saints’ intentions to make a serious playoff push in 2023.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling: Adding Depth and Experience to the Receiving Corps
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While wide receiver might not be the Saints’ most pressing need, adding a proven veteran like Marquez Valdes-Scantling would provide valuable depth and experience to their receiving corps.
Valdes-Scantling is a big-bodied receiver with exceptional speed, making him a constant deep threat. His ability to stretch the field would open up the underneath routes for Michael Thomas and Chris Olave, creating a dynamic trio that would be difficult for defenses to contain.
Beyond his receiving skills, Valdes-Scantling is also a willing blocker, a trait that would be highly valued in the Saints’ run-first offense. His experience playing in a similar system in Kansas City would allow him to seamlessly transition to the Saints’ playbook.
Adding Valdes-Scantling to the mix would give Derek Carr another reliable target and enhance the Saints’ offensive firepower. His presence would also provide valuable mentorship for the Saints’ young receivers, aiding their development and ensuring a bright future for the team’s passing attack.
